I am so pleased that all three of my FIRST LEGO League teams qualified to move on to the regional qualifier here in Tampa! Not only did they qualify, they’ve all stepped up their game to give their best possible showing at the event! Win or lose, I’m proud of the integrity and dedication they are showing as we get ready to compete.

The Robochef Tampa Regional Tournament is scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 4th at the University Area Community Development Corporation (UACDC) Community Center, 14013 North 22nd Street, Tampa, FL 33613. The center is located north of the USF Campus.

This is one of six regional qualifiers being held around the state. Top teams from each qualifier will move on to compete at the state level at the Florida Institute of Technology in Melbourne on Feb. 26th.

The event is open and free to the public. You don’t have to stay all day. The general schedule is

8:30 am Opening Parade and Ceremony
9:15 am – 2:00 pm (with a break for lunch) Competition rounds (Robot Arena)
2:45 pm Blind Pirate’s Robot Challenge (robots are teamed up and compete in direct elimination rounds for a bonus trophy during awards).
4:30 pm Awards Ceremony in Robot Arena

The robot arena will be setup in the gymnasium and there is bleacher seating for spectators. It’s pretty exciting to watch. I hope to see some of you there!